Yes, remove it. It will never fit it the right location if you don't. There is a steel bearing collar that needs be removed before putting the new on in it's place. I used a long rod and tapped mine out.
I also replaced mine with a solid bronze bushing which is as solid as a rock and works great.
Also, forget about filling the steering gearbox with gearoil, they don't seal worth a shit. Just pack the hell out of it with axle grease and then seal it the best you can.
Marlin has them....
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